Sir Keir Starmer has defended the Labour Party's decision to block Andy Burnham from standing in the Gorton and Denton by-election, insisting the mayor is doing a "great job" in Greater Manchester but that allowing him to run would divert resources from crucial elections in May.
The Prime Minister faced internal criticism after Labour's National Executive Committee voted 10-0 on Sunday to deny Mr Burnham permission to contest the seat. Critics accuse Sir Keir of acting for factional reasons, fearing a leadership challenge from the popular mayor as Labour's poll ratings falter.
Speaking on a visit to southwest London, Sir Keir said: "Having an election for the Mayor of Manchester when it's not necessary would divert our resources away from the elections that we must have, that we must fight and win." He appealed for unity, adding: "The fight is with Reform, and we all need to line up together."
Former cabinet minister Louise Haigh called for the decision to be reversed, warning: "Otherwise I think we'll all come to regret this." Trade unions also criticised the move, with Unison's general secretary saying it was not how "any democratic organisation should be run".
Mr Burnham said he was "disappointed" by the decision and "concerned about its potential impact on the important elections ahead of us", but vowed to "return with full focus" to his mayoral duties.
